NAPLAN writing is the most creative section — yet also the most learnable. Discover exactly what markers look for and how to help your child score higher.
NAPLAN writing is marked against a detailed rubric across 7 criteria. Understanding the rubric is the single biggest advantage you can give your child — because then you know exactly what to practice.
The 7 Marking Criteria
- 1Audience — does the writing suit the intended reader?
- 2Text structure — does it follow the correct structural features?
- 3Ideas — are they original, developed, and relevant?
- 4Character and setting — for narratives only
- 5Vocabulary — is a range of precise, interesting words used?
- 6Cohesion — does the text flow logically?
- 7Paragraphing — is the text divided into logical paragraphs?
Persuasive vs Narrative — Which to Choose?
Students are given a prompt. Many default to narrative even when persuasive would suit them better. Persuasive writing is more formulaic (PEEL paragraphs) and easier to structure reliably. Encourage practice with both.
Teach your child to spend the first 5 minutes planning before writing a single sentence. Students who plan consistently outscore those who write immediately — even when they write less overall.
Put These Tips Into Practice
SmartNAPLAN gives your child personalised practice, practice tests, and progress tracking — all based on the NAPLAN curriculum.
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